Vehicle Interior Trim Structure With Embedded Functional Connections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle interior trim pieces with integrated functional elements, such as those disclosed in documents FR3074567 and DE102015220253, face issues of non-localized heating element positioning, high cost due to particle distribution, and structural discontinuities causing energy efficiency losses.
Innovation Solution
A multi-layer structure with a support layer, covering layer, and connecting layer, where functional elements are positioned locally between the layers with an elongated connection passing through the support layer, eliminating structural discontinuities and allowing localized placement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If heating elements are distributed as particles throughout the material layer, then the entire surface can be heated, but the cost increases and localized heating is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The heating function is extracted from a distributed particle system and concentrated into a specific localized element that can be precisely positioned within the trim piece structure, eliminating the need for particles throughout the entire material layer
Solution Approach 2:
Heating capability is concentrated at a specific location rather than distributed uniformly, allowing localized heating where needed and reducing the quantity of heating material required
2Ease of operation
If separate connection pieces are used to connect functional elements, then the functional elements can be connected to power sources, but structural and mechanical discontinuities are created causing energy efficiency losses
Solution Approach 1:
The connection piece is merged with the support layer to form an integrated, continuous structure, eliminating the mechanical discontinuity between separate components and improving energy efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The support layer serves multiple functions: it provides structural support and simultaneously acts as the connection piece for electrical connections, eliminating the need for separate connection components
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient, cost-effective, and energy-efficient integration of functional elements by avoiding structural and mechanical discontinuities, allowing precise placement and reducing energy losses.
Implementation Method 1
the functional part is extended continuously by an elongated connection or joining part allowing its electrical supply and/or the transmission of electrical signals
Implementation Method 2
The heating element comprises in particular a layer of acrylic paint comprising carbon particles and/or metal particles which emit heat under the effect of the electrical power supplied to the heating element by two electrodes connected to the layer of paint
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
The present invention relates to an interior trim piece for a vehicle, said trim piece having a three-dimensional shape and comprising, on the one hand, a multi-layer structure having a support layer (1) and an added covering layer (2) and, on the other hand, at least one functional element (3) comprising a functional part (3a) of surface extension disposed between the support layer (1) and the covering layer (2), the multi-layer structure further comprising a bonding layer (4) interposed between the support layer (1) and the covering layer (2) so as to assemble/link them together, at least the functional part (3a) of the functional element (3) being disposed and maintained locally between the covering layer (2) and the support layer (1) by being located outside the bonding layer (4).It is characterized in that the functional part (3a) extends continuously into an elongated connection or linking part (3b) enabling its power supply and/or the transmission of electrical signals, and in that the elongated connection or linking part (3b) of the functional element(s) (3) or at least one of them extends through the thickness of the support layer (1) beyond its outer face (1a), being embedded in or encased by the support layer (1). It also relates to a method for manufacturing such a part.